Chicago Bulls Honored Late Broadcaster Stacey King
The franchise introduced season-long tributes to remember the former player and announcer who passed away last June.
Updated on Oct. 14, 2026 in Basketball
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The Chicago Bulls have implemented a series of tributes for Stacey King, their late broadcaster and former three-time NBA champion. Fans at home games now hear King's famous sign-off after each victory, while players wear commemorative patches on their jerseys.
Why it matters
These gestures allow the organization to mourn the loss of a pivotal figure in franchise history while connecting with fans who grew up listening to his broadcasts. The tribute program serves as a season-long reflection on King's multi-decade legacy with the team.
Stacey King won three NBA championships and played as a 6-foot-11 forward for the Bulls. He was 59 years old when he passed away on June 7, 2026.
The players
Stacey King
He was a former professional basketball player who served as a longtime broadcaster for the Chicago Bulls.
Chicago Bulls
This professional basketball organization competes in the National Basketball Association.
The details
Following his death, the team held a moment of silence during their preseason opener to begin their memorial efforts. The audio tribute features his signature call, 'Drive home safely, Chicago. BEEP BEEP,' played over the arena speakers after every home win.
Timeline
Stacey King played for the Bulls from 1989 to 1993.
Stacey King died at age 59 on June 7, 2026.
The team debuted the audio tribute during their preseason opener in October 2026.
Players are wearing commemorative jersey patches throughout the 2026-27 season.
The Bulls will hold an official tribute night on February 4, 2027.
Season Trajectory
The season-long tribute program solidifies the team's focus on historical legacy during the 2026-27 campaign. These efforts maintain a connection to past eras of championship success while the current roster navigates the competitive demands of the season.
Fans attending games at the United Center will hear the audio tribute following all home victories this season. Additionally, players will continue to wear the commemorative patches on their uniforms for every game throughout the remainder of the 2026-27 schedule.
The takeaway
The Bulls' tributes honor a man who remained a fixture of the organization long after his playing days ended. Fans can appreciate these moments as a way to maintain the connection between the team's championship heritage and its current identity.
What happens next
The Chicago Bulls are scheduled to host an official tribute night for Stacey King on February 4, 2027.
Further reading
For more information on team news, visit the Chicago Basketball page.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Complex.
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